ELAINE GIBBS
“One of the best voices not only of her generation
but all generations past, present and to come.”
About Elaine
Those are the words of many in the industry who have had the privilege to be in the presence of Elaine Gibbs. When you listen closely to her singing, it's evident that she performs and sings from her soul. It's a place she's come to know quite well.
Elaine Gibbs began her career as many R&B phenoms at the tender age of 13 in the church. That's where her musical roots were planted, and tended to, early on. That upbringing instilled an unyielding spirit from God that greatly influences her singing and writing today. And yet like most creative spirits, Elaine was destined to soar far beyond her point of origin.
As a breathtaking vocalist and sought-after performer, Elaine has traveled the world sharing her amazing gift on stage, tv, film and recordings. She has lent her voice to some of the biggest names in the world of Gospel including the late Rev. James Cleveland, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Tramaine Hawkins, Shirley Ceasar, and Gospel Workshop of America. She has worked with Bobby Womack, Cherrelle, Miki Howard, Rod Stewart, and the Gap Band. She released her first R&B album as a young lead singer with the group Side Effect. In that release, Billboard Magazine touted Elaine’s talent writing that she has “a voice to be reckoned with” comparing her to such legends as Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, and Chaka Kahn.
Along her journey, Elaine has graced many a stage as an event performer and special occasion artist. From weddings to galas to public events, she has shared her talents at galas honoring the likes of Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Angela Bassett, Stephanie Mills, and Chaka Kahn. She has had the honor of singing for the opening of the Congressional Session of the California State Legislature, performing for the Annual Living Legends Awards, serenading Senate President David Steinberg for the Special Needs Annual Evening Under the Stars, singing for Areva Martin’s Special Needs Network Pink Pump Affair Galas, entertaining guests for Judge Mablean Ephriam’s H.U.F. Awards celebrating unsung fathers in the community, and performing for Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Divas Simply Singing Annual Galas for AIDS. She has delighted brides and grooms as a wedding singer, collaborating as a vocal partner for over 15 years with one of Southern California’s elite bands – Chuck Wansley After Hours. She has been an essential part of the weddings of Marcia Cross, Larry King, Brad Garrett, Lela Rachon, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and a host of other celebrities and public figures.
Her television and film accomplishments have been many, including her appearance on Season One of X Factor as one of the ‘Over 30’s’ finalists. She wowed judges with her audition, singing You’ve Got A Friend, and received an immediate 4 judge approval to move forward in the competition.LA Reid, Paula Abdul, Nicole Scherzinger, and Simon Cowell all raved that she is one of the best singers they have encountered.
Elaine also lent her heartfelt and emotional voice for TV1’s Black History Month with her inspirational “Martin Can You Hear Us” video, designed to reconnect Americans to the importance of Dr. Martin Luther King’s teachings. She stunned tv audiences recently on Jimmy Fallon’s Clash of the Cover Bands where her roaring covers of Aretha Franklin literally received standing ovations from the audience and judges alike. As a part of her
journey, Elaine has lent her vocal skills to film scores and television tracks including voiceovers for Disney and a collaboration duet with the late Ollie Woodson of The Temptations.
Elaine has taken her talents to performance stages around the world. She is currently touring with Elaine Sings Aretha. She also performs in the jazz and R&B circuit with her band Nu Soul and the Elaine Gibbs Quintet. Her exquisite performances are frequent requests at venues including Catalina Jazz Club, Vibrato Jazz & Grill, the Orange County Fair, Sky Princess Cruise Lines, various jazz festivals, and a variety of restaurants.
In addition to her musical creative impact, Elaine Gibbs’ philanthropic efforts have played an integral role in her life. Her commitment to the advancement of children and adults with autism and other special needs has been paramount. She has lent her time, energy, and voice to charities for special needs and developmental disorders. As the consummate advocate and activist, Elaine is a present help for the fight for civil rights and racial injustice. She has been on the frontlines in addition to being ever present in the community for events that help push the movement forward. Elaine also lends her talent and expertise to students as a vocal and performance coach, training them with the real-life skills and nuances of the industry. She always provides a platform for her up and coming talents, helping them carry out her legacy and growing their own.
Elaine’s latest project, a gospel album entitled I Know Somebody, returns her back to where it all began. “This is the legacy I want to leave for my children, grandchildren, family, and friends. It is the foundation and the source of my being. If it had not been for God in my life, I would not be the artist, vocalist, and performer that I am today.” A labor of love, this newest album was born from the trials and tribulations of the global pandemic but is rooted in what is important and the relationship she holds dear. Elaine’s underlying belief is that her voice was created by God for greatness, and it is with this greatness she delivers a pure emotional connection straight to the heart of anyone who listens.
Elaine Gibbs is a mother, a daughter, a sister, a friend, a grandmother, an activist, a philanthropist, producer, minister, teacher, entertainer, vocal stylist, Psalmist, and flat-out SANGER! Most importantly she’s God’s girl and continues to seek ways to give Him the glory!